Frozen Treats for Hot Days

Is there anything better than a cold treat on a sweltering summer day?

As temperatures rise, our cravings for popsicles, ice cream, and frosty drinks go into overdrive. But so many popular frozen treats come loaded with sugar, artificial colors, and long ingredient lists that sound more like a science experiment than a snack.

Let’s change that! This week, we’re diving into simple, nourishing ways to enjoy frozen treats with real food ingredients the whole family will love. These treats are easy to make at home, kid-approved, and refreshingly guilt-free.

What’s the Junk?

A quick glance at the ingredients in many store-bought popsicles or novelty ice creams might surprise you: high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavorings, synthetic dyes (Red 40, anyone?), and very little actual fruit.

Even the ones that seem healthy, like "fruit bars," often include added sugars and preservatives.

Unjunk It! Homemade Frozen Treat Ideas:

Here are some fun and simple recipes you can try at home with real ingredients:

1. Creamy Berry Yogurt Pops

  • 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)

  • 1 banana

  • 3/4 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)

  • 1-2 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)

Blend until smooth, pour into popsicle molds, and freeze for at least 4 hours.

2. Coconut Mango Freeze Cups

  • 1 cup diced mango

  • 1/2 cup full-fat canned coconut milk

  • Squeeze of lime 

Blend and pour into small silicone muffin molds or cups. Freeze until solid.

3. Watermelon Ice Cubes

  • Blend fresh watermelon and freeze into ice cube trays. 

Pop into sparkling water for a fizzy, fun drink.

4. DIY Smoothie Pops

Make extra smoothie in the morning and pour the leftovers into popsicle molds for an afternoon treat.

5. Frozen Banana Pops

Slice bananas, insert popsicle sticks, dip in Greek yogurt, and roll in granola, chopped nuts, or dark chocolate chips. Freeze on parchment paper.

Real Food Tip

Keep a stash of frozen fruit (bananas, berries, mango) in the freezer for instant smoothie bowls, ice creams, or slushies without added sugar.

Michelle Walker

a mom, former educator, and the founder of Unjunk America - a movement dedicated to helping families ditch processed foods, decode food labels, and reconnect with real food. With a warm, no-judgment approach, Michelle empowers parents to make simple, sustainable changes in their kitchens, one meal at a time.

Learn more or join the movement at UnjunkAmerica.com.